Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne is the world’s first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary, with an extraordinary 500-year vision to restore a Wellington valley’s forest and freshwater ecosystems as closely as possible to their pre-human state. The 225 hectare (500+ acre) ecosanctuary is a groundbreaking conservation project that has reintroduced 18 species of native wildlife back into the area, some of which were previously absent from mainland New Zealand for over 100 years.

Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne is about the most biodiversity-rich square mile of mainland New Zealand in terms of the species living wild here. Over forty different species of native birds have been recorded in our sanctuary valley, twenty-four of them endemic (found in no other country). Dozens of reptile species, hundreds of plant species and thousands of kinds of invertebrates have made Zealandia their home. Many of the animals and plants you will see at Zealandia are highly endangered, and some are practically extinct in areas not protected by managed like ours.

On this tour, discover the awe of twilight at Zealandia, as the sanctuary transforms from daylight to night during this special guided experience. You will have an opportunity to experience the dusk chorus sung by a cacophony of native New Zealand birds. Experience a flurry of activity as a range of resident birds return to their nests, against the magical backdrop of the dusk sky and the calm forest environment. You may even experience the first sights and sounds of the nocturnal birds, such as kiwi and ruru (morepork / owl) as they wake. Twilight Tours are an unforgettable, immersive experience, which will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
*Kiwi sightings occur occasionally on Twilight Tours.

What You Might See:

Kākā | Takahē | Tuatara | Tūī | Shags | Little Spotted Kiwi | Pāteke | Hihi

All proceeds raised through the sale of Zealandia tour tickets contributes to the ongoing work of our sanctuary to restore nature. Your visit is an important part of the sanctuary’s success.